Belmont University provides the opportunity for high achieving students majoring in Psychological Science to gain entry into the university’s doctoral program in occupational therapy doctorate (OTD) after only 3 years of undergraduate study.
The OTD programs can be completed within three additional years for a total of 6 years (3+3) at Belmont University. Interested students should declare their intent to pursue the BA/BS/OTD 3+3 program before the end of the first semester of the Psychological Science BA/ BS degree program. Belmont students who want to enter the 3+ 3 program after the end of their first semester will be considered on a case-by-case basis to determine their eligibility for the 3+ 3 program.
In your first three years, you will complete 113 of the 128 credits required for a B.A. or B.S. in Psychological Science, which includes 24 credits of specified prerequisite courses for entry into the OTD program. With cumulative and prerequisite GPAs above 3.0 and a minimum of a B- on all prerequisite courses at the end of your sophomore year, you may apply (through OTCAS) for Early Decision to the OTD program a year prior to your desired entry. All specified credentials are required. As a 3+3 applicant you must also demonstrate progress in developing professional behaviors for occupational therapy practice.
If you have an overall and prerequisite GPA of at least 3.7 and present remaining application credentials which validate your preparedness for doctoral study, you are eligible for guaranteed admission to the OTD program. If your overall or prerequisite GPA is below 3.7, you will still be considered for Early Decision but on a competitive basis with other applicants. Your application could possibly be deferred until after fall semester grades are submitted. If admitted as a 3+3 candidate, you must complete all specified requirements, including the BELL Core and WELL Core, by the end of the spring semester of your third year. The minor requirement is waived for 3+3 students.
If not admitted to the OTD program as a 3+3 candidate, you may continue your bachelor’s degree but must add a minor to your Psychological Science major. You may re-apply to the OTD program during your senior year for entry after graduating with your B.A. or B.S.
Specific requirements for the 3+3 program are detailed in the Belmont University catalog. Questions should be directed to the Department Chair for Psychological Science.
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